Got Community?

When does being alone not feel lonely?

Writing, as we know, is a solitary sport. I create, write, edit, revise and begin again, alone in my office with my dog Oscar.  Thus, the logical conclusion is that I feel alone.  But, that’s the funny thing about writing for kids.  I’ve never felt alone.  Along the road to YES, I’ve become a part of this amazing community of children’s writers. They’re gracious, smart, kind, and genuine. From my EMLA agency family, to my VCFA writing retreat gang, to my writing group and writing friends, I’ve always felt connected. When I need inspiration, counsel, or a fresh set of eyes, they’re always there. And, when I cross the finish line to my ISBN number, I know they’ll be there, too.  This group of amazing talent fills my community, my writing world.  So even when I’m writing at my computer in my office with just my dog at my feet, I’m never truly alone.

This sense of connection and belonging is important for children’s writers and their readers, alike.  Everyone needs to know who’s got their back when it’s the worst-kind-of-day and who will cheer the loudest when the tides turn and a happy moment is in need of sharing. Kids, like those who write for them, need to know they’re part of something bigger then themselves.  They need to feel connected to their peers, to the books they read, and the characters that star in them.  Community is our safety net, it’s what grounds and sustains us.  So, the next time you find yourself in a solitary moment, remember you’re not alone, someone always has your back.

To my writing community (and of course the family and friends who make up my life community), thanks for never letting alone ever feel lonely.

Book I’m reading:  Heck Superhero by Martine Leavitt.